Policy & Advocacy Work
We aim to set the agenda for national mental health reform. We develop and advocate for practical policy solutions and system changes that will improve the community’s mental health and enable the sector to thrive.
Our policy and advocacy work draws on the expertise of Mental Health Australia members, including lived experience representative groups; research evidence; insights from on-the-ground implementation; and our in-depth understanding of government and political decision-making processes.
Our policy and advocacy work presents a cohesive voice to government and provides practical policy solutions to influence decision-making, which in turn, improves the mental health system and the mental health of people in Australia.
Policy Submissions
Mental Health Australia develops and advocates for practical policy solutions – which draw on:
- The expertise of Mental Health Australia members – including clinicians, service providers, researchers and representative groups; lived experience peak bodies; and people with lived and living experience of mental ill-health, family, carers and supporters; all of whom represent a diversity and breadth of needs and experiences;
- Evidence and insights from research, data, and practice;
- What is currently working well, and insights from on-the-ground reform implementation; and
- Our in-depth understanding of government policy and political decision-making processes.
Statements
Our statements highlight key areas for mental health reform and offer practical paths forward for government action. We develop statements on issues of importance to the community and mental health sector, in collaboration with members and other stakeholders.
These statements are intended to influence particular government decision making processes.
Research and Projects
We partner with leading researchers and organisations to develop mental health system research and analysis. This informs our policy priorities and strengthens our advocacy to improve Australia’s mental health system.
Mental Health Australia is also engaged by government to undertake research and projects to provide recommendations to inform national mental health policy.
Federal Budget Overviews
Mental Health Australia prepares Federal Budget Overviews to provide members with a concise analysis of key budget measures impacting the mental health sector. A valued benefit of membership, these Overviews highlight relevant funding announcements, policy changes, and strategic implications for the community and sector.
Distributed on Budget night, the summaries aim to support informed decision-making and sector-wide understanding of how Federal Budget outcomes may affect mental health systems and priorities across Australia.